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The PSTN Switch-Off: Will Your Alarm System Still Work?
The UK’s telephone network is changing—and it’s going to affect thousands of alarm systems.
By now you may have heard about the PSTN switch-off, but what does it actually mean for your security system?
If your alarm relies on a phone line, there’s a real risk it may stop working properly—or at all.
What Is the PSTN Switch-Off?
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the traditional analogue phone network that’s been in use for decades.
BT and other providers are now phasing it out completely, replacing it with digital (IP-based) services.
The key point:
Old-style phone lines are being switched off permanently.
Why This Matters for Alarm Systems
Many older alarm systems rely on PSTN lines to communicate.
This includes:
- Monitored alarm signalling (older formats)
- Speech diallers (very common in domestic systems)
- RedCare and similar legacy products
Once PSTN is gone:
- These systems may fail to send signals
- Or work intermittently / unreliably
- Or stop working without the user realising
Speech Diallers – The Hidden Risk
This is the big one we’re seeing on a lot of sites.
Speech diallers are designed to:
- Call your phone (or keyholders)
- Play a recorded message when the alarm activates
They’ve been a popular, low-cost solution for years.
The problem?
Most speech diallers rely on analogue phone lines.
When moved onto digital/VoIP lines:
- They often don’t trigger calls correctly
- Audio can fail or distort
- Timing issues can stop calls connecting altogether
In short:
You may think your system is calling you—but it isn’t.
BT RedCare Closure
Adding to the issue, BT RedCare is also being withdrawn.
If your system uses RedCare:
- It will need to be replaced or upgraded
- Continued monitoring won’t be possible on legacy setups
What Should You Do?
If your system:
- Uses a phone line
- Has a speech dialler
- Has RedCare installed
- Or is more than a few years old
…it’s worth getting it checked now.
Don’t wait until:
- You change broadband provider
- Your line is upgraded
- Or the system quietly stops working
What Are the Modern Alternatives?
The good news is there are much better options available now.
Modern systems use:
- IP (internet-based signalling)
- 4G/5G mobile networks
- Dual-path signalling for reliability
These are:
- Faster
- More reliable
- Not affected by the PSTN switch-off
Our Advice at Moore Secure
We’re already helping customers across Romsey, Southampton, Winchester and Cheshire deal with these changes.
In many cases:
- Existing systems can be adapted
- Or upgraded to modern signalling
- Or replaced with a future-proof solution
Every site is different—so it’s about giving the right advice, not just replacing equipment unnecessarily.
Final Thoughts
The PSTN switch-off isn’t just a telecoms change—it’s a security issue.
If your alarm system can’t communicate, it can’t protect you properly.
A quick check now could prevent a system failure later.
If you’re unsure whether your alarm system will be affected, get in touch with us today and we’ll be happy to advise.
